Das Weisse Band (“The White Ribbon”) is the first film I saw by Michael Haneke and is still my favourite film by the Austrian Director.
Using the inhabitants of a small village just before the beginning of the First World War as an example, Haneke depicts the German society of that time, in which strict religious and hierarchical structures dominate coexistence and how these are the breeding ground for the receptivity of ideology in future generations.
Stylistically, the work is incredibly focused. Aesthetically set in black and white but with natural acting and without musical accompaniment, the film feels stylized and realistic at the same time. It creates a very deep viewing experience and you can no longer turn your gaze away from the social horror that unfolds.
The film won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, is one of the best films of recent times and stands out especially in German-language film.
